Australia braced for a rare east coast tropical cyclone that is swirling towards Brisbane, its third-most populous city, with authorities urging residents in flood-prone suburbs to evacuate soon.

Cyclone Alfred Live Tracker, Australia Tropical Cyclone Alfred LIVE Updates: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that 660 schools in southern Queensland and 280 schools in northern New South Wales were closed on Thursday as weather conditions worsened due to the cyclone.

A category two storm heading for the east coast of Australia has forced airports to close and airlines to cancel flights in preparation for up to 80 mph winds.

Cyclone Alfred stalled off Australia's east coast on Thursday delaying landfall as officials shut airports, schools and public transport and residents stockpiled supplies and sandbagged homes against floodwaters expected when the category-two storm hits.

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Early wind and rain from a rare tropical cyclone began lashing part of eastern Australia on Thursday as schools were closed, public transport was stopped and desperate residents got around shortages of sandbags by buying potting mix.